Operation Amity, which commences today, will see police highly visible across the state’s major roads and highways, in an effort to reduce road trauma. Police said there will be zero tolerance for drink and drug driving, with widespread alcohol and drug testing to be conducted across the state.
Victoria Police has issued a statement saying they are preparing for a busy period on Victorian roads.
A statewide road policing operation kicks off for the Australia Day long weekend.
Operation Amity, which commences today, will see police highly visible across the state’s major roads and highways, in an effort to reduce road trauma.
Police will be targeting high risk areas, including coastal holiday hotspots and major roads leading to and from popular regional destinations.
As a major tourist destination, roads around Phillip Island will be included in Operation Amity, including the Bass Highway and South Gippsland Highway
With the return of school next week, police are warning all road users to prepare for an influx of traffic as many Victorians hit the road for the last long weekend of the January holiday period.
Road toll
The announcement comes as 24 lives have been lost on Victoria’s roads in 2025, up from 19 at the same time last year, with 62 per cent of those occurring on roads in regional areas.
With roads expected to be busy over the long weekend, police are urging motorists to slow down, be patient and avoid rushing by allowing plenty of extra travel time.
There will be zero tolerance for drink and drug driving, with police to conduct widespread alcohol and drug testing across the state.
Motorists are being warned to expect to be tested for alcohol or drugs anywhere, anytime.
“We want everyone to enjoy this long weekend, but let’s also ensure we all make it home safely at the end of it," said Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glenn Weir:
During last year’s Operation Amity, police detected over 5200 traffic offences, including 2,261 speeding offences.
Last year’s operation also saw police conduct close to 80,000 alcohol and drug tests, with 154 drink drivers and 121 drug drivers caught.
Operation Roadwise is now underway and concludes at 23:59 hours on Monday January 27.
For more information and tips for staying safe on the roads this long weekend, visit the Road Safety page on the Victoria Police website.
